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Imperial Sour Ale brewed with Tart Cherry Juice

New York State ranks 4th for tart cherry production in the US, with the majority of the acreage located in four Western New York Counties located about 2 hours from Southern Tier brewery. They source our tart cherry juice from a grower in Niagara County on the shores of Lake Ontario where the glaciated soils and lake-tempered northern climate are ideal for growing tart cherries. Tart cherries are known as a “super food” and their price reflects this moniker. They have one of the highest levels of antioxidants of any food, a truly brilliant red color, and a clean, bright, juicy aroma and flavor that’s accentuated by their natural acidity.

Southern Tier maintains a culture of Lactobacillus buchneri that is used to sour wort over three days, starting at a pH of 5.5 and finishing around 3.4. After souring is complete, the wort is boiled, hopped, spiced, cooled, and pitched with the house ale strain of yeast. After roughly 24 hours of fermentation, the tart cherry concentrate is added directly to the fermentation vessel. Exactly when the cherry juice is added is a delicate balancing act of adding the juice (more sugar) early enough so that the fermentation will complete, but late enough that the delicate flavors, aromas, and colors of the juice are preserved as much as possible. It would be a travesty to add such beautiful and rare juice to hot wort, don’t you think?

The finished beer is a striking, lustful shade of red with a persistent white head and durable lacing thanks to the large portion of wheat in the grist. The nose is defined by equal parts bright lactic acidity and cherry notes with a hint of coriander. On the palate, the strong lactic acidity is accentuated by the natural tartness of the cherry juice. Quantitatively, this beer is quite sweet, but we find that this level of residual sweetness is just enough to balance the acidity and that the overall perception of the beer is actually quite dry. The beer finishes very clean and in conjunction with the salt in the finish, it definitely makes you want to come back for more.

THEY SUPPORT POLICIES THAT PROTECT CLEAN WATER:

Clean water is a part of their triple bottom line business model. Crafting great beer while caring for the planet and doing what is right is how they operate. Their journey has led them to take steps to reduce their own impact on the water supply. They’ve built an onsite process wastewater treatment plant. They’ve cut water use. They give philanthropic dollars to nonprofits engaged in water conservation. They do what they can to honor the environment in their own process and philanthropy. They also know that good policies that protect water can do more than they could ever do on their own.

A BUCK A BARREL FOR MORE BIKES. BOOM.

Through their Environmental Stewardship Grant program -- aka $1 per Barrel program -- they donate $1 for every barrel of beer they sell to non-profits and causes that resonate with us. The causes that they focus upon fall into a few big categories, and one of those categories is bicycle advocacy and sensible transportation. In 2014, they are allocating $105,000 to support local organizations around the country who are working to make the bike a viable form of transportation in their communities. They thought it would be cool to spotlight one of those organizations:

The Bike Depot is a nonprofit community bike center located in Denver, Colorado. They offer a ton of services and have put thousands of folks in bike seats on the streets of Denver. Through co-operative instruction and guidance, they teach individuals how to confidently repair their own bicycles. Their efforts help foster community and inspire folks to safely ride their bicycles more often. BikeDepot is an integral part of Denver’s exploding bicycle scene: whether you ride for recreation or are a full-time commuter they can help you get your butt in the right saddle and teach you how to make it a smooth ride.

THE WETLANDS INITIATIVE

The Wetlands Initiative was founded in 1994 and is dedicated to restoring the wetland resources of the Midwest to improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat and biodiversity, and reduce flood damages. Their vision is clear and straight-forward: wetlands are more valuable wet than dry. The work that they are doing to promote this vision is pretty phenomenal: they are promoting the use of wetlands by farmers to naturally reduce nutrient pollution resulting from runoff of agricultural fertilizers. Before we get into the details of what that means, let’s back up for a moment and talk about what a wetland is, and why they matter so much to us. A wetland is an area of land that is saturated with water (at least part-time), and which is distinguished by its unique aquatic vegetation. A few types of wetlands that y’all may be familiar with depending upon your surroundings include mangroves, swamps, and marshes. Wetlands are arguably the most biodiverse type of ecosystem on the planet, providing habitat for countless species of plants & animals, and countless recreational opportunities for us humans. What’s more, they filter, clean and store water for their surrounding ecosystem. Or as the folks over at defenders.org put it, they’re the Earth’s kidneys! The importance of these storage and filtration functions cannot be overstated. By providing floodwater storage, wetlands can naturally handle significant flood events, avoiding the devastating effects that a flood can have on buildings, habitats, lives, and pocketbooks. By providing filtration, wetlands naturally remove high concentrations of contaminants and nutrients to ensure downstream ecosystems continue to thrive. And this is where the folks at the Wetlands Initiative (TWI) come in.

New Belgium is honored to connect with TWI, and to connect with Midwestern farmers through them, and they look forward to hearing more about the great work they are doing. Next time you are navigating an American waterway, be sure to toast the good folks at TWI. It only seems appropriate to drink a Portage Porter while on the water, so perhaps you should fill a river-safe metal growler with it before you set out, eh?

Have You Tried Founders Breakfast Stout? The coffee lover’s consummate beer. Brewed with an abundance of flaked oats, bitter and imported chocolates, and two types of coffee, this stout has an intense fresh-roasted java nose topped with a frothy, cinnamon-colored head that goes forever. Use our Beer Finder to locate the nearest 6 pack!

Fall has arrived: You’re busting out the boots, scarves and jackets. You’re spending weekends watching football and eating comfort food. While you automatically change up your wardrobe and your calendar for the season, there’s absolutely no reason you shouldn’t be changing up your beer of choice as well.

Summer is gone and so is the craving for citrus and wheat ales, Fall answers with pumpkin-flavored beers and darker ales. It's harvest season, so jump on the bandwagon and start popping Fall flavored bottles!

"If you were preparing for winter in Southern Tier's hometown of Lakewood, N.Y., you'd want fall to linger as long as possible, too. Pumking has been the pumpkin ale early bird for years, but it doesn't disappoint. It packs a little heat at 8.6% ABV, but there isn't a whole lot of alcohol to its flavor. It's a dark orange beer that smells like a pumpkin scone, tastes like pumpkin pie filling at the beginning and finishes like a cinnamon-and-sugar milkshake. There's a rare oak-barrel version that may require a trip to Southern Tier's brewpub, but the original recipe is enough to keep even the most discriminating beer lover nice and toasty." http://www.thestreet.com/story/13257784/3/10-pumpkin-beers-making-fall-flavor-a-summer-staple.html

"The bottle states that the beer is brewed with "a pagan spirit", and I don't know what the hell that means, but those pagan spirits can make a helluva pumpkin beer. There is a veritable pumpkin spice fiesta on the nose, and those same flavors are present when you take your first sip. Expect a touch of sweet, as well. This is easily in the top tier of pumpkin beers, to be celebrated by pagans and non-pagans alike." https://www.thrillist.com/drink/nation/the-best-pumpkin-beers-dogfish-head-avery-brewing-elysian

"Pumking is an ode to Púca, a creature of Celtic folklore, who is both feared and respected by those who believe in it. Púca is said to waylay travelers throughout the night, tossing them on its back, and providing them the ride of their lives, from which they return forever changed! Brewed in the spirit of All Hallows Eve, a time of year when spirits can make contact with the physical world and when magic is most potent. Pour Pumking into a goblet and allow it’s alluring spirit to overflow. As spicy aromas present themselves, let its deep copper color entrance you as your journey into this mystical brew has just begun. As the first drops touch your tongue a magical spell will bewitch your taste buds making it difficult to escape." http://www.beerinfo.com/index.php/pages/bestpumpkinbeers.html

As most of you have probably heard, people are starting to mix beer with liquor, juice and condiments. I know what you are thinking, "why would you ruin a perfectly good beer?" Well don't knock it until you've tried it because whoever invented these beer cocktail concoctions were on to something. This summer we will have a beer cocktail recipe series and we encourage all of you to at least give a few a try. Now, it only seems right to feature the original beer cocktail classic from Mexico, The Michelada. This is for anyone who likes a kick and enjoys a good Bloody Mary from time to time.

There are few things more refreshing on a scorching summer day than an ice-cold beer. But don’t reach for just any beer – find one that is fresh and flavorful and just right for the season. Here are a few of our favorite types of brews to sip in the summer.

Wheat beers

Wheat beers, including German-style hefeweizens and Belgian-style witbiers, are crisp and balanced. Many have spicy or citrusy notes that pair well with fresh summer food.

Fruit beers

Fruit beers take full advantage of fresh seasonal flavors – from peaches and cherries to blueberries and apricots. Pair them with dinner or dessert, or savor them all on their own.

IPAs

Hoppy IPAs were originally brewed to survive in hot temperatures, and they still go well with this type of climate. Opt for an IPA with a little fruit flavor for an extra refreshing taste.

Pilsners

There is nothing heavy about the pilsner, a lager with a light golden color and a smooth, malty flavor. Pilsners usually have low to medium alcohol content, so they are ideal for sipping at a summer BBQ or poolside.

Are you craving something with a little Spring hop in it? The weather is finally changing and people are coming out of hibernation. It’s time for some of our Spring releases, which means it’s also time for a picnic, barbecue, a bonfire with friends, or even a nice bar patio will do! Here are some of our delicious seasonal’s and a few places you can find them in our area:

Southern Tier Hop Sun

Local is always better! Light and slightly dry, it is the addition of fresh hop flowers after fermentation that adds a necessary kick on a hot summer day. Hop Sun is mild but has just enough of a hop profile to keep your taste buds tingling for another sip. Brewed with wheat, barley, and hops.

Brooklyn Summer Ale

Summer in Brooklyn is all about following your impulses, winging it from beaches and barbecues to stoops and rooftops. Brooklyn Summer Ale is a refreshing, flavorful pale ale made to accompany you on all your warm weather adventures. 100% British 2-row barley brings its famed bready flavors, capped off with German and American hops to provide a snappy, clean bitterness and a bright, floral aroma. It's a sunny pale ale, Brooklyn style.

FARM FRESH FOODS703 W THIRD STJAMESTOWN, NY 14701(716)483-3933

21st Amendment Hell Or High Watermelon

Like Lady Liberty, we stand for independence and perseverance. In the pursuit of innovative beer, there is no obstacle too great. No journey too long. No fruit too gigantic. This American wheat beer is brewed with real watermelon, for a flavor that’s surprisingly crisp, dry and refreshing—summer in a can.

WEGMANS945 FAIRMOUNT AVE WEJAMESTOWN, NY 14701(716)483-9900

Bud Light Lime A Ritas

Bud Light Lime A Ritas are a ready-to-drink 8% ABV Margarita flavored alcoholic beverage with a twist of Bud Light Lime. Best served over ice. This is offered in a variety of flavors like Mango, Strawberry, Lime, Apple, lime, and Raspberry.

More...

With its many different varieties and flavors, beer is one of the most versatile drinks to pair with food. Similar to wine, beer can enhance the characteristics of the meal you are eating.

When you are faced with a long list of delicious beers to choose from, which one should you choose to pair with your dinner? There are no hard and fast rules, but here are a few tips to get you started!

The Basics of Beer Pairings

Now its best to start with what you like.

Think about the beers you generally like to drink on a regular basis and the qualities you look for. Do you prefer bold hoppy beers like IPA's, light bodied beers or wheat beers? Do you lean toward fruity or sweet notes instead of malty flavors? You can use these preferences to help you narrow down your options.

In general, beer pairings work well when you match the body of a beer to the body of a dish. For example, a hearty beef stew would pair nicely with a full-bodied beer like a brown ale like a stout, but a fish and chips platter would be better with a medium-bodied beer like a pale ale.

Think about the main ingredients or seasonings in your meal. You can opt for a beer that shares some of these flavors and will increase their potency. For example, a full flavored IPA would be a good match for increasing the kick of spicy chicken tacos.

Experiment!

It’s great to stick to what you know and like, but don’t be afraid to venture out and try something new every now and then. There is no right or wrong way to pair beer with food, so play with new combinations. You might be surprised by what your palate discovers!

Have you ever craved a particular beer, but weren't sure where to find it in your area? Try this new feature on our brand new website to make your life a little bit easier!

Let me show you:

Say you're really hankering a Belgian Style Ale with Green Coffee Beans, Orange Peels & Coriander. Well then you would be searching for Southern Tier Tripel Cafe. On our homepage, you would click "Beer Finder" It will take you to a page where you can choose the Supplier, Brand, and Business Type. So i'm going to choose "Southern Tier", "Tripel Cafe", and "Restaurant" within 10 miles of my zip code. The results will amaze you!...

Okay, one more search just to make sure you've got the hang of it. Lets do something a little more basic. Search for your favorite beer "Anheuser Busch" "(Budweiser of course)" "Supermarket" As you can see, you have many options and all you have to do is click on the little red baloon to find out which store to buy it at!

Bud Light, “The Perfect Beer for Whatever Happens,” is known for taking over hotels, cruise ships and even entire towns. For its next act, the Official Beer Sponsor of the NFL will provide consumers with once-in-a-lifetime #UpForWhatever experiences at Super Bowl XLIX in Phoenix with its first-ever Bud Light House of Whatever.

For three days during Super Bowl week, the Bud Light House of Whatever will feature a fully immersive experience of unforgettable parties, amazing concerts and signature activities. Just like Whatever, USA, the Bud Light House of Whatever will reward consumers 21 and older who prove they are truly up for whatever happens next.

On Friday, Nov. 21, Bud Light announced its plans for the Bud Light House of Whatever to media, influencers and Bud Light drinkers who had proven themselves to be “Up for Whatever.” The event took place on the rooftop pool deck at the hotel in downtown Phoenix that will be taken over by the Bud Light House of Whatever in January. Bud Light vice president Alex Lambrecht and Grammy-nominated DJ Steve Aoki were on hand to celebrate the announcement.

“Our fans have really enjoyed the ‘Up For Whatever’ activations we’ve done this year, from the ‘Epic Night’ spot at Super Bowl XLVIII to this summer’s incredible Whatever, USA, experience in Colorado,” said Lambrecht. “The Bud Light House of Whatever will keep that spirit going, so expect it to be the most unique party experience in Phoenix. You could say it’s the Super Bowl version of Whatever, USA.”

Aoki will perform one of his high-energy sets on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the House of Whatever. Bud Light will reveal more talent announcements in the weeks to come.